The Kohima district administration has imposed strict restrictions on the movement of pigs and pork products after African Swine Fever (ASF) was confirmed in Rütsie, P Khel, Kohima Village, and Mezoma Village.

Deputy Commissioner, B Henok Buchem issued the notification following confirmation of the outbreak through positive laboratory test reports received from the Office of the Chief Veterinary Officer, Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.

As part of the containment measures, a 1-km radius around the infected locations has been declared an Infected Zone, while a 10-km radius has been notified as a Surveillance Zone.

The district administration has imposed an immediate ban on the export, import and movement of live pigs and pork products within, into or out of the notified zones. All pork markets and butchery shops operating within the affected areas have also been ordered to remain closed until further notice.

Pig farmers have been directed to tighten biosecurity measures by restricting visitors to farms, regularly disinfecting farm premises and immediately reporting any unusual illness or deaths among pigs to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services.

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The notification further mandates that pig carcasses be disposed of through safe burial as per prescribed protocols. Dumping of carcasses in rivers, streams or open areas has been strictly prohibited to prevent further spread of the disease.

The public has also been urged to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing or consuming pork from unknown or unverified sources.

The Deputy Commissioner warned that any violation of the restrictions will invite legal action under the Prevention and Control of Infectious and Contagious Diseases in Animals Act, 2009, and other applicable laws.